Invasive Species of Rocky Branch

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• ​At one point in history, Rocky Branch Creek was classified as the North Carolina's most polluted urban stream by the Division of Water Control.

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• Restoration Process:​

  • Rocky Branch Creek was originally too narrow, deep, and heavily eroded due to excess stormwater draining directly into the river.

  • It was dangerous for people passing by and detrimental to Neuse River Basin due to sedimentation.

  • Through natural channel design techniques, the restored stream now meanders through a newly created floodplain.

  • The creek itself incorporated manmade pools to provide habitats to aquatic species and also acts as a means for controlling the speed of waterflow.

  • Native vegetation provides habitat, cover and food for wildlife. Plantings have increased the width of the forested buffer zone, creating a wildlife corridor and shading for the creek.

  • The project also incorporated the Greenway Trail, stormwater management, and educational signs to inform people of the beauty of nature and how environmental restoration is important to both wildlife and humans.

  • 8 year restoration project (started 2002, ended 2010)

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• As it is Today: Invasive Species Everywhere!

  • Despite having improved the overall layout and functionality of the creek, many areas alongside it were left vulnerable to invasive species. Although native species were planted during the final steps of the creek restoration process, invasives grew quicker than the natives and eventually outcompeted them in resources. This is where we are today.

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